Maxine Hardwick…a news icon..gone too soon!

Cincinnati, and especially WCIN lost a treasure with the recent passing of Maxine Hardwick. We who worked there were blessed with her professionalism and ability to brighten every room when she entered. Her vibrant spirit will be greatly missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to be in her presence. The above picture was taken from her obituary and for those who weren’t able to make the journey for her home going service…the following information was taken from the memorial booklet and will be bracketed in quotation marks..

“Lois Maxine Lyons Hardwick was born on March 26th, 1944 in Birmingham, Alabama, the second child of Gussie and Cleophus Lyons, Sr. “Maxine”, as she was affectionately know, was admired for her welcoming and loving spirit-she never met a stranger.Maxine attended Cleveland Metropolitan Schools and graduated from Glenville High School in 1961. In 1962, she married her childhood friend and sweetheart William “Mickey” Hardwick. To this union, their daughter Mikki Denise Hardwick was born.Maxine was an African American pioneer in broadcast journalism for both radio and television. Maxine began her distinguished career in Cleveland, Ohio at WJW-TV (now known as Fox 80 in 1968 as a secretary for “Adventure Road” talk show host Jim Done. Always one to “shine” Maxine’s melodic voice and persona was immediately recognized by WJW’s top executives. She and beat reporter “Pete Carey” were given an opportunity to produce Cleveland’s first minority focused television show, and they called it “Rap”. Rap was just the beginning of what would prove to be Maxine’s stellar career.Maxine relocated to Cincinnati, Ohio in 1971 and that is when her career really took off. The ultimate trail blazer, Maxine was WCPO’s first African American woman to broadcast weather, anchor news and host “Black Memo”, a public affairs talk show from the 1970’s through the 1980’s. In 1988, Maxine joined WCIN-AM as a disc jockey and program director. In 1993, Maxine also joined WBND-AM (1160) as a program director and morning talk show host. After over 35 years in broadcast journalism, Maxine retired in 2006, mentoring many up and coming journalists.”Maxine Hardwick was called home to Glory on February 22, 2013 and has left a legacy of professionalism that is unmatched. The WCIN family continues to pray for the family and vows to keep her contributions forever in the minds and hearts of the faithful listeners.

Thank you Everett Cork and All other's from WCIN who remember my mom Maxine Hardwick! I truly appreciate your thoughfulness and I know she is up in heaven and delighted that you all gave a "Shout Out" in memory of her. Thank you again for all your kind words, cards and flowers. Sincerely, Mikki Hardwick Lett (Pebbles)